6 Months
Somehow Aidan has survived to be the ripe old age of 6 months last Saturday. To commemorate this notable milestone we packed up around 30 drip cloths, along with the Drool King of the Eastside and headed to the local J.C. Penny photography studio. For those who have yet to experience the department store based studio for a few quick pica - it is entertaining.

Upon arrival we were blessed to witness the rantings of some mother who couldn't believe that the poor, trying only to do her job JCP employee wouldn't give her some coupon package price when she DIDN'T HAVE THE COUPON! After what seemed like hours of bickering (an excellent example for the young'ns in attendance by the way), a visit by some ineffective manager, who didn't contribute any assistance or support for the employee and simply stood there, arrived as if the simple presence of his hulking 5'3" frame was speaking volumes and the participants should recognize the power held by the position of 'Manager: JCP Photo Studio' and wrap up the difference of opinion. I know I was in awe. The employee and mother were apparently just as in awe of the manager's presence as I and, ignoring the manager, continued their argument.

Now, let me take a break from this exciting tale to explain that these picture packages range from all of $3.50 to some $7 a sheet of pictures. The two women probably burned up more money in slimfast breakfast bar calories then the picture sheets were arguing over were worth; Not to mention the months of therapy that the poor womans daughter, subjected to this less then polite debate, is going to have to endure in her later teen years as she tries to discover why she can't find a date for the prom and has no friends.

Eventually, if for no other reason then to move on to her other customers (us) the employee finally agreed to allow the woman to bring in the coupon on the following Monday and the package price would be adjusted. Whew! I turned towards Anya with a look of pure fear and hesitancy to which she replied; 'I have the coupon.' I could breath easy again.

Once actually getting into the photo studio room there was a whirlwind of poses, costume and backdrop changes and camera flashes. Our JCP employee was very good at her job - moving from one pose and picture to the next with great efficiency. Once all the shots were taken the arduous task of selecting the pictures to be printed, and which package to be applied began. I stepped up and recognized what I needed to do - I left it up to Anya while I took Aidan wandering around the rest of the store. Sure, I occasionally returned to the computer where Anya was toiling over not only which pictures to select, but whether to have them in color, black and white, or sepia, but only to provide the occasional opinion, 'yup, that's great. Good choice.' then make a quick exit back to the rest of the store. There's nothing more helpful then a quick comment and exit. Anya may not agree.

Aidan did a very good job with his pictures; Smiling on queue, not being fussy and seemingly enjoying the entire experience Aidan was a natural in front of the camera. We'll see if that turns into an actual job where he can start supporting himself. It's never too soon to learn good work values - and contribute to the family's boat fuel fund.